Review: Nicholas Rodriguez Inspires in a Seventies-Themed Signature Theatre Cabaret

Seen most recently in his unforgettable turn as Billy Bigelow in Arena Stage's CAROUSEL, Nicholas Rodriguez graces Signature Theatre with his own cabaret. Those in the DC area who have delighted in Rodriguez's take on traditional musical roles now get the chance to hear him croon, emote, and belt a variety of music spanning the decade of the 1970s.

On opening night, Rodriguez didn't shy away from disco - he emerged, looking sharp, and unapologetically indulged in an opener that melded songs from KC and the Sunshine Band and The Bee Gees. Yes, there were disco balls. But before anyone could get too comfortable with the throwback, feel-good aesthetic, Rodriguez took an unconventional turn and broke out the mammoth Broadway classic "Meadowlark." After sweeping the audience to another realm with the strength and expressiveness of his voice, he acknowledged the irony of throwing in this particular number in the hallowed halls of the Tony-winning Signature, and vowed to keep it in the setlist only if the audience liked it. There was no question.

Continuing to mix things up, Rodriguez took on the bossa nova standard "The Waters of March", with its continuous, hard-to-remember lyrics (with which he had no problem). Keyboardist and musical director Mark Hartman embraced this song and other moments in the spotlight with expert piano solos.

There was more musical theater (a "rainbow" medley featuring a gorgeous "Rainbow Connection") and more pop (Cher's "Half-Breed", which the multiracial Rodriguez said he loved as a kid) interspersed with funny childhood recollections. But the most memorable moments were tinged with folk and jazz: Rodriguez seduced with "Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face", and his falsetto was heart-melting. Charming lighting design (Kelly Rudolph) created a starry night for "Vincent", a tearjerker wrought with emotion.

Rodriguez addressed politics (unavoidable these days) with a blend of good humor, hope, and inspiration in the form of a 1976 song that still rings true - "Everything Must Change." At this particular moment in time, his beautiful performance was both a balm and a jolt of much-needed energy.

The Nicholas Rodriguez Cabaret runs through February 4, 2017, at Signature Theatre's ARK Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206. Tickets (very limited availability) can be purchased at www.sigtheatre.org or by calling 703-820-9771. Cabaret Series passes are available for all four of Signature's 2016/17 season cabarets.

Photo: Nicholas Rodriguez, courtesy of Signature Theatre website.